Millcreek residents back proposed noise ordinance

Millcreek residents said Tuesday that a proposed noise ordinance being considered by township supervisors is long overdue.

Supervisors are considering an ordinance that would set maximum noise levels in residential neighborhoods to 57 decibels during the evening and 52 decibels overnight.

The ordinance additionally would set maximum noise levels in commercial districts at 67 decibels and in industrial districts at 77 decibels, both round-the-clock.

The levels are based on recommendations of a local sound engineer, local testing and on maximum decibel levels in noise ordinances already approved by townships similar to Millcreek statewide, township solicitor Dominick Sisinni said.

"This will not and legally cannot, quite frankly, silence the township 100 percent," Sisinni said in outlining the ordinance for supervisors during the township business meeting Tuesday morning. "It will catch the egregious (violations)," he said.

Millcreek Township police would enforce the ordinance. Police responding to complaints will be equipped with decibel meters.

"This ordinance is long overdue," resident Don Bates said. "I had a problem in my neighborhood, called the police, and there was not a thing they could do."

Without an ordinance defining excessive noise, police could not cite people for loud parties, music or other noise, Bates said.

Resident Ray Reade also applauded the proposed ordinance, both personally and for the Chestnut Hills Association.

"This ordinance is a long time coming," Reade said. "I admire the supervisors for taking a proactive role at this point."

Some events and activities would be exempt from the ordinance, including emergency work, construction, landscaping, school and other public activities, and special events permitted by the township.

Supervisors are also considering an ordinance that would require a township permit for large gatherings, so the township can provide traffic control, emergency services and other services as needed, officials said.

The ordinance would apply to parades, street fairs, block parties, obstacle course races and other events expected to attract large crowds or interfere with pedestrian or vehicle traffic. Private events such as in-home parties and some public events would be exempted.

Permit fees would be based on services required.

Both ordinances are posted on the township website at www.millcreektownship.com. Supervisors are expected to vote on the ordinances during their 7 p.m. meeting July 25.

Valerie Myers can be reached at 878-1913 or by email. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/ETNmyers.